As leaves begin to sprout on trees across campus and the thawing dormitories reclaim their usual moldy stench of spring, we are given time to reflect on yet another magical and rapidly-ending year at Carthage College. For the Student Government of Carthage College, this past year has been one of progress; tending to our traditional duties and assuming new roles for the betterment of all Carthaginians across our sprawling lake-coastal campus. Though much has been accomplished, there is a persistent sense of unfinished business, which is why I am announcing my re-election for President of Student Government.

     In all of my three years in Student Government, none have compared to the progress demonstrated by this one. It has been paramount. While presidential politicians have been trampling tracks across the country touting their ability to change, Student Government has been enacting positive change to benefit all students.
We have: held student forums to address such dire issues as cafeteria food, meal plans and the Seidemann renovation project, held our first serious discussions regarding our outdated constitution this millennium, carried out three successful blood drives in coordination with the Blood Center of Wisconsin, created organizational presidents meetings to hear the concerns of student organizations; granted numerous budget allocations; recognized several new student organizations, had guest speakers Mayor John Antaramian and State Representative Jim Kreuser on campus, organized a Kenosha Mayoral Forum to strengthen the bonds between Carthage and Kenosha, and much, much more! Our future and current workings including our upcoming forum regarding rising J-Term trip prices and our various election activities. We have listened, we have talked, we have debated, we have fought and, most of all, we have delivered. However, like all things in life, there is room for improvement, which is exactly why we have elections-- to discuss the old and debate the new in hopes of creating a better tomorrow.

     By now, many people have probably noticed campaigning for the exciting May 1 Executive Board elections are well underway. This year we will be using a new online voting procedure to encourage higher turnout among students. On the day of elections, eligible students will receive a link in their Carthage e-mail to the voting site where they can cast their choice for president, vice-president and treasurer. It should be one of the most contested and competitive races Carthage has experienced in recent memory. Exactly a week following the executive board elections, the stupendous Student Senate elections will be held with the same online procedure on May 8, which packets are currently available for in the Dean of Students office. I strongly encourage all students who are interested and committed to run for Student Senate, as it is a great way to serve your fellow students and school. If the shameless self-promotion of campaigning is not exactly your cup of Green tea, please at least vote. Or die. The choice is yours and yours alone. Choose wisely.

     In closing, I would like to say it has been an absolute honor, a definite privilege, and a positive challenge to serve as President of your Student Government this past year. Regardless of the outcome of the upcoming elections, I look forward to working with all students to create a Carthage we can all be proud of.

Be educated, stay fresh, celebrate the day, save the world, and vote on May 1.